This Chocolate Chia Pudding tastes like a creamy chocolate pudding with little jelly-like seeds that makes me think of boba drinks. But, the best part is that chia seeds, compared to tapioca pearls, add a bunch of fiber and proteins to your breakfast to keep your gut healthy and full for hours.

I love making chia puddings like my Coconut Chia Pudding, Mango Chia Pudding, or 3-Ingredient Chia Pudding, but in winter, I want something with a more warming flavor. And nothing beats chocolate! So I decided to make this chocolate chia pudding.

Ingredients and Substitutions

This paragraph gives you all my tips about picking the right ingredients. For the full recipe with measurements, scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of the post!Go to Full Recipe

You only need 5 ingredients to make this pudding (and the optional vanilla extract).

Chia Seeds – These tiny seeds absorb liquid, creating a pudding-like texture. They are packed with fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids, making this a filling and nutrient-dense meal. Black and white chia seeds work equally well.
Dairy-Free Yogurt – Adds creaminess and a subtle tang, balancing the richness of the cocoa powder. You can use any yogurt, including plant-based or dairy options, depending on your preference.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Provides a rich chocolate flavor. For a sweeter, more mellow taste, opt for Dutch-processed cocoa powder. Cacao powder is a healthier option but will result in a slightly bitter taste.
Unsweetened Almond Milk – Creates the pudding’s creamy base. Soy milk is a great alternative to boost protein, while coconut milk offers a richer flavor.
Maple Syrup – Acts as a natural sweetener. Other liquid sweeteners like agave syrup, honey (if not vegan), or stevia drops for a low-carb option work well.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the chocolate flavor and adds a hint of sweetness.

How to Make Chocolate Chia Pudding

Chocolate Chia Pudding base ingredients in a pan.

Combine the base ingredients in a large pan.

Adding milk to the Chocolate Chia Pudding.

Stir and add the milk, stir again to make a chocolate mixture.

Pouring chia seeds on the base Chocolate Chia Pudding batter.

Pour the chia seeds on the mixture and stir again to distribute them.

Chocolate Chia Pudding in a large pan ready to be set in the fridge.

Cover the pan and leave it in the fridge for at least hours to set.

Carine’s Tips

While this recipe is super easy, I have a few more tips that can help you make the very best pudding.

Warm the Milk – If your cocoa powder clumps, slightly warming the milk (microwave for 30–45 seconds) helps it dissolve faster. This step is optional but useful for a smoother consistency.
Blend for Easy Mixing – Blend all the liquid ingredients, including cocoa powder and maple syrup, to dissolve the cocoa completely and save time whisking.
Prevent Clumping – Stir the chia pudding every 5 minutes during the first 20 minutes after mixing to ensure the seeds don’t clump together.
Customize the Texture – If you don’t enjoy the jelly-like texture of chia seeds, blend the pudding after refrigerating to create a creamy, mousse-like consistency.
Adjust Sweetness – Taste the mixture before refrigerating. Add more sweetener or cocoa powder as needed to suit your taste.
Boost Protein – Stir in protein powder before adding the chia seeds. Add more milk to adjust the consistency if it becomes too thick. Alternatively, top the pudding with hemp seeds, nut butter, or yogurt for additional protein.
Add Flavor Twists – Mix in a tablespoon of peanut butter, almond butter, or hazelnut spread for a nutty twist. You can also serve with fresh or frozen berries for a fruity complement.
Low-Carb Option – Replace the maple syrup with stevia or monk fruit sweetener for a low-carb, keto-friendly pudding.

Serving Ideas

This is a really versatile recipe that you can serve as a breakfast, snack, and even dessert. Here are my favorites.

As-Is – Enjoy it plain for a rich, chocolatey breakfast or snack.
Toppings – Add berries, chopped nuts, coconut flakes, granola, or dark chocolate shavings for added texture and flavor.
Layered Dessert – Layer the pudding with dairy-free yogurt, granola, or fruit in a jar for an impressive parfait.
Warm Chocolate Pudding – Microwave the pudding for 30 seconds to enjoy a warm, cozy version during colder months.

More Chia Pudding Recipes

Coconut Chia Pudding

Dragon Fruit Chia Pudding

This Mango chia pudding is an easy healthy refreshing summer breakfast packed with delicious mango coconut flavor. Plus, it adds so many proteins, fiber, and vitamins to your morning that it will keep you energized for hours.

Mango Chia Seed Pudding

Strawberry Chia Seed Pudding

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